Indonesia is home to a rich tradition of natural healing practices that have been passed down through generations.
Rooted in local wisdom and shaped by centuries of cultural heritage, Indonesian traditional medicine employs an array of natural ingredients, ranging from medicinal plants to kitchen spices, to address a wide variety of health concerns.
This long-standing tradition has not only remained popular among locals but has also begun to capture the interest of foreigners living in the country.
A Canadian expatriate residing in Indonesia recently shared her appreciation for these natural healing methods through a video on her TikTok account, @ibubrooke. In her post, she expressed her admiration for being surrounded by people who use natural remedies in their daily lives.
@ibubrooke oh ya and when in doubt – minyak kayu putih 🤣 #healingnaturally #indonesiavibes #slowliving #naturalremedies #holisticlife #buleinindonesia #jamu #plantmedicine #wellnesstraditions ♬ original sound – brooke 🌺 island life
“I really like living surrounded by people who have natural ways to heal,” she said in the video, while slicing ginger to make a homemade drink consisting of ginger, honey, and lime ingredients commonly used in Indonesian households to soothe cold symptoms and promote general well-being.
In the same video, she described an incident in which she was stung by a bee. Rather than resorting to pharmaceutical painkillers, she opted for a traditional remedy recommended by her local community.
“Instead of taking painkillers, I followed the advice of my local people by applying garlic and shallots to the bitten area,” she explained, further highlighting her openness to learning from her new environment.
Netizens Share Their Own Traditional Remedies
The video received considerable attention, generating numerous comments from Indonesian users who enthusiastically shared their own traditional remedies.
One comment read, “If cough, make lime and sweet soy sauce,” referring to a time-honoured mixture used in many Indonesian homes to relieve throat irritation.
Another viewer wrote, “I remember when I was a kid, whenever I got stung by bees, I used rose petals and rubbed it on the area that got stung,” offering yet another example of how natural healing practices are embedded in everyday life from a young age.
The response to the video illustrates not only the cultural significance of these remedies but also the sense of communal pride many Indonesians feel towards their natural healing heritage.
It also underscores how these practices continue to be relevant in modern times, especially as individuals become more mindful of natural and preventative approaches to health.
Common Natural Ingredients in Indonesian Healing
Among the most widely used traditional remedies in Indonesia is jamu, a herbal drink typically composed of roots, leaves, flowers, seeds, and spices. Ingredients such as turmeric, ginger, temulawak (Java ginger), kencur (aromatic ginger), and tamarind are commonly used for their health-boosting properties.
These drinks are consumed regularly by many Indonesians to maintain balance and resilience within the body.
In addition to herbal drinks, certain plants are used topically or as part of daily wellness routines.
Ginger and turmeric are renowned for their anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits. Betel leaves and guava leaves are often used for treating wounds and digestive issues, while aloe vera is applied for skin health.
Eucalyptus oil, derived from the leaves of the Melaleuca cajuputi tree, holds a particularly valued place in Indonesian households.
Recognised for its distinctive aroma and medicinal benefits, eucalyptus oil is used to ease cold and flu symptoms by loosening mucus and relieving nasal congestion. Many apply it to the chest or inhale its vapour to treat coughs and sinus issues.
Furthermore, this oil is regularly used to relieve muscle and joint discomfort. The anti-inflammatory and analgesic content in eucalyptus oil can have a relaxing effect on tense muscles. Its frequent use by massaging the affected area is proven to help relieve pain and improve blood circulation.
Aside from its medical applications, eucalyptus oil is also known for its insect-repelling properties.
Its sharp scent is effective in keeping mosquitoes and other insects at bay. It is typically applied directly to the skin or diffused into the air to create a more comfortable living environment.
